Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 New International Version (NIV)
Today the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) was re-introduced into both the Senate and the House of Representatives by members of both Democratic and Republican parties. This legislation, which has been introduced a number of times since 1990, prohibits employers from using gender identity or sexual orientation as criteria for hiring (or firing) employees. The bill exempts small businesses with fewer than fifteen employees and religious organizations.
When I spoke to people about this bill in the past, many expressed surprise that it was needed. They assumed that no one could be refused employment or be fired on the basis of sexual orientation. Not as many were aware of gender identity issues period, let alone the lack of protection for transsexuals. At the moment, twenty-one states plus D.C. have laws similar to ENDA. Sixteen include protection for transgendered individuals.
Mara Keisling, founder and Executive Director of the National Center for Transgender Equality posted a blog today, "ENDA 2013: Everything You Need to Know," that answers questions about the bill.
I have met transsexual people who have lost their jobs once they began the process of transitioning. One was a doctor who practiced in a clinic. Her patients loved her. But her employer insisted she present as a male. I have met transsexuals who were no longer welcome in their churches when they learned of their members transsexuality.
I suggest you read about the bill and then contact your senators and representative. In our country, in 2013, there is no reason why an employer should be able to refuse to hire someone or terminate employment based on sexual orientation or gender identity.